Tuesday, January 31, 2012

The Writer's Block Interviews: Nancy Carlson

I started as an illustrator but after two books was encouraged by my editor to try and write my own.

2) Are you a writer who illustrates or an illustrator who writes?

I am an illustrator who writes.

3) Tell us about your first published children’s book. What was the inspiration for it?

My first published book was HARRIET'S RECITAL It was inspired by a my own childhood recital.

4) How did you go about getting it published?

In 1978, I showed my artwork to Carolrhda Books. They hired me to illustrate my first book which was on the history of Halloween.

5) Describe your body of work as an author.

The majority of my 61 published books are written and illustrated by me. Most have a positive message most solve a simple problem, I also have many theme books out like my best seller I LIKE ME.

6) How have you promoted your books and artwork? What strategies have been the most effective?

In the old days by speaking all over! Now I speak all over, post a daily
drawing on my blog and Facebook. I also tweet and post news on my Facebook page. I also send send out 5 or 6 mass emails to my list. You
have to do all to be effective!

7) Do you think that eBooks are a viable format for children’s picture books?

No, but they might become viable in the future. Who knows how it will all evolve?

8) What advice would you give to budding author/illustrators?

Draw everyday, write everyday! Do free things like school posters and stuff for churches, etc. Join The Society of Children's Books Writers and Illustrators.

9) What is your definition of success?

That kids think my books are awesome!

10) What is next for you in 2012?

Trying to get a book published and working on my artwork!

Author Bio

Nancy Carlson is an accomplished children's book author and illustrator who
has published more than 60 books. She is one of the few people who knew even
back in kindergarten what she wanted to do for a living: "Make pictures and tell
stories!"

Nancy is a life-long Minnesotan. Born and raised in Edina, Minnesota, Nancy
had a happy and fulfilling childhood surrounded by an outgoing family. Her
parents read to her and her brother and sister every night. The comic books she
loved to read as a child have influenced her style of drawing and use of color.
Many of Nancy's stories are taken from her own childhood experiences.

Nancy graduated from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design with a major
in printmaking, and shortly afterward became fascinated with children's books
while working at Minneapolis's Walker Art Center. Nancy began to write her own
stories and created accompanying drawings. It wasn't long before she found
herself approaching publishers with her own ideas for children's books. She had
numerous art exhibitions before getting into the publishing world and her
artwork is held in many private and public collections. Recognition for her
published work includes several Reading Rainbow selections, the Children's
Choice Award from the International Reading Association and Children's Book
Council, the Minnesota Children's Museum Great Friends to Kids Award and several
others.

Nancy believes that life should be fun for everyone, but especially for
children. This optimistic message permeates her picture books and provides a
positive counterpoint to much of what children are influenced by in today's
society. Her characters aren't always perfect. They often have fears, anxieties,
and disabilities. Through her books, kids learn to cope with different
challenges. They can learn that they don't have to be perfect to be a good
person. Her characters also convey positive messages without being "preachy".
They gently remind children what is right.

Nancy is also a guest author and illustrator at over 150 school classrooms
each year, and has touched the lives of thousands of children across the
country.

Today, Nancy lives in Minnesota with her husband, three children, and her dog
named Lily. Nancy's entire family is into sports and enjoys the outdoors. Nancy
herself enjoys running, hiking, biking, swimming, skiing and golf.

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Raychelle Muhammad

About Raychelle

I am a published author, writer, and editor who is looking to share my works plus anything and everything I might find interesting. I want to hear from you, too! I publish another blog, Journeys Fitness, where I discuss a wide variety of health and wellness topics.

My background is in management, sales, marketing, and many things creative across a variety of industries. You can see more about HERE.